Every few days the Indian summer weather departs and we know that it really is the autumn season. In this season of harvest as we anticipate Thanksgiving, I hear the words of this hymn:
From the bright light of the morning to
the last warm glow of dusk.
Every breath we take is sacred, for It is
God's gift to us.
In thanksgiving let us praise God, in
thanksgiving, let us sing
Songs of praise and adoration to our
gracious Lord and King.
In the community of Hope Presbyterian Church we can experience God's gifts to us and be thankful. What do you see as God's gifts to Hope? I see elders serving on Session who lead with energy, imagination, intelligence and love to live into the mission and calling of the church. I see worship leaders, liturgists, choirs who prepare for worship, and lead us in our praise and thanksgiving every Sunday. I see Sunday School teachers and youth leaders preparing for classes, leading children and youth into Bible stories, nurturing them in the faith. I see leaders at work to teach all of us about God's call to be stewards. I see great and wonderful energy from the Holy Spirit in our mission to feed, shelter, build, plant, provide relief and encouragement. And I hear the buzz of fellowship as we come together for those times where we share meals and the company of each other as well as the stranger who has walked through the door for the first time.
Paul's Letter to the Colossians instructs us to put on the ways of Christ, to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forgiveness and especially love. "And whatever we do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (Colossians 3: 17)
Thanks be to God!
Pastor Dottie